The DC live-action universe is currently in full swing, with a bevy of exciting projects set to arrive in theaters over the next few years. The DCEU is stepping away from serialized storytelling, allowing each new blockbuster to stand on its own. And it all began with Zack Snyder's Man of Steel, which jump-started an entire cinematic universe when it arrived in theaters in 2013.
Zack Snyder brought his signature style and dark tone to Man of Steel, as Henry Cavill's Clark Kent got an origin story in the modern world. Visually, the film is very reminiscent of Snyder's previous comic book movie Watchmen, although it turns out that there's another connection between the two. Namely, an easter egg featuring the The Comedians' iconic smiley face badge. Check it out below.
from r/DC_Cinematic
Real subtle, Snyder. In this shot you can clearly see The Comedian's logo, which has become the symbol for Watchmen in general. It's the crossover we never expected, and one that should tickle comic book fans out there.
This recently discovered easter egg, which comes to us from Reddit, is one that has largely gone unidentified in the 6 years since Man of Steel arrived in theaters. But it's the type of content that cinephiles and comic book fans adore, as homage is paid to other projects within the genre. While Snyder's blockbuster didn't have any crossovers with other DC heroes (the DCEU wasn't born yet), it's exciting to see that he was able to put a touch of Watchmen in Man of Steel.
In many ways, Watchmen helped to shatter the expectations of what a comic book movie could do. Ultra-stylized and extremely mature, the movie is a polarizing point in Zack Snyder's career. It ultimately remains one of his most iconic movies, and clearly informed the way he approached DC projects like Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Justice League.
Despite being released back in 2013, there hasn't been any major steps toward a Man of Steel sequel. Zack Snyder doesn't appear to have any plans to step back behind the camera for the DCEU, so other directors' names have been thrown around as a possible replacement for a follow-up. Most recently, it was revealed that Guardians of the Galaxy director James Gunn was approached about directing the sequel, before he eventually settled on The Suicide Squad.
Henry Cavill's Superman may have been the first superhero in the DC Universe, but the actor's future with the character is currently unclear. About six months ago, rumors swirled that Cavill would be hanging up his cape and departing the role. There has been no official announcement, although Cavill did respond in a bizarre video that only raised more questions from the general public. Although with Ben Affleck already out the door as Batman, it's clear that DC's priorities are shifting.
The next installment in the DC Universe is Shazam! on April 5th. In the meantime, check out our 2019 release list to plan your next trip to the movies.
